Pakistan Parliament passes Defence Forces Act 2026, gives sweeping powers to Field Marshal Asim Munir

Pakistan’s National Assembly on Thursday passed the Defence Forces Act 2026, paving the way for a major overhaul of the country’s military command structure and strengthening the authority of Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Asim Munir.

The bill was passed by a majority vote. The legislation provides the legal and administrative framework for the office of the Chief of Defence Forces and the Chief of Defence Forces Headquarters.

Under the new framework, the Chief of Defence Forces is positioned at the centre of Pakistan’s unified military command, bringing the Army, Navy and Air Force under a more integrated operational structure.

The legislation provides the CDF with extensive powers over military personnel, including authority relating to the retirement, discharge and release of personnel across the three services. It also provides for changes to retirement ages and terms of service, as well as relaxation of prescribed age limits.

The new structure further provides for unified operational coordination through the Defence Forces Headquarters (DFHQ), aimed at bringing land, air and maritime operations under a common command framework.

The law also lays down provisions to deal with conflicts between the new command structure and existing military laws, strengthening the authority of the unified defence command where such overlaps arise.

Another significant provision is the designation of the Chief of Defence Forces as the principal military adviser to the Pakistan Prime Minister, further elevating the position within Pakistan’s national security and military decision-making structure.

The legislation was passed amid opposition protests, with opposition lawmakers boycotting the voting process and staging a walkout. The Pakistan Peoples Party also raised objections to the manner in which the legislation was introduced.

Field Marshal Asim Munir has served as Pakistan’s first Chief of Defence Forces following the creation of the post. The National Assembly had earlier described his appointment as strengthening coordination among Pakistan’s Army, Navy and Air Force.

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